3 Ways to Keep Cool During Your Workout

Sep 8, 2014

Whether you live in the desert or another part of the country, when temperatures are hot, it can be difficult to work out.

Whether you live in the desert or another part of the country, when temperatures are hot, it can be difficult to work out. High temperatures can make your exercise uncomfortable or even dangerous, as there are risks of dehydration and serious health issues. When you work out in the heat, your body circulates blood to the skin to cool it down. The danger here is that your system is transporting the blood away from your muscles and reducing the amount of blood your heart pumps. This can increase your blood pressure to a point where you have to stop exercising.

Whether you’re training for a marathon or are a weekend warrior, consistency is important when it comes to workouts—the effects of training are quickly lost when you stop. Instead of letting hot temperatures put a wrench in your workout regimen, try these tips for keeping cool when you’re working out in the heat.

1. HYDRATE LIKE CRAZY

It’s essential to hydrate before, during and after your workout. You've got to maintain the salt-water balance in your body by drinking plenty of fluids, preferably cold water. It's also safe to drink a sports beverage with electrolytes, but avoid caffeinated beverages altogether during exercise. Dehydration is one of the most common problems for people who work out in hotter climates, so be sure to protect yourself.

2. PROTECT YOUR SKIN

The sun’s harmful rays can do some serious damage, even when it’s cloudy. Protect your skin from a sunburn with an oil-free sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher. Oil-free is key because it won’t interfere with your body’s ability to cool down, unlike some oilier versions. You should also wear sunglasses and a lightweight, breathable hat to protect your eyes and delicate scalp, while keeping you cooler overall.

3. WEAR LIGHTWEIGHT, BREATHABLE GEAR

While you typically want to wear minimal amounts of clothing to keep things cool, like shorts, a tank top and running socks, you can choose gear that helps prevent overheating. Opt for light-colored, moisture wicking fabrics that transport sweat away from your skin so that your cooling system functions properly and Thirty48’s running socks, which are made with COOLMAX® Fabric, which will also move moisture away from your skin so that your feet can breathe.